From command systems to communication: Making an impact across the Baltic Sea
Few regions are as strategically important, or as technically demanding, to defend as the Baltic Sea. Two people who know this better than most are Johan Hägg, Product Manager for Saab’s 9LV Combat Management System, and Angelica Persson, Manager C-UAS and electrical engineer. Both appear in Saab’s acclaimed film series Shielding the Baltic Sea, where they share their passion for creating real impact.
“To effectively defend the Baltic Sea, you need a complete societal system; technology, people, and trust working together.”
– Johan
Meet the Difference Makers
Johan – Product Manager, 9LV Combat Management System
- Over 40 years in defence, including two decades as a naval officer and commander in the Swedish Navy.
- Joined Saab in 2007 and has since led the long-term development of the 9LV system.
- Combines operational insight with technological innovation to strengthen maritime defence.
- Passionate about mentoring and ensuring future generations inherit robust naval systems.
Angelica – Manager C–UAS, Saab Surveillance
- Master of Science in Electrical Engineering, Lund University.
- Joined Saab in 2018, working across radar systems, missile technology, and Gripen programmes, and now C-UAS.
- Recognised for her ability to make complex technology easy to understand, and for inspiring others through engaging communication.
- A strong advocate for learning, diversity, and purpose-driven work in tech.
What is ‘Shielding the Baltic Sea’ film series?
Launched in May 2024, Shielding the Baltic Sea is a Saab-produced film series exploring the strategic importance of the Baltic region, and the people and technologies working to keep it safe.
Each episode features Saab experts, naval officers, and analysts sharing real insights into the challenges and innovations shaping modern maritime defence.
The series has reached over 100,000 viewers across both defence and civilian audiences since its release.
“I was amazed by how many people had seen it — colleagues, friends, even people I met abroad. It shows how much the topic matters.”
– Angelica
A day at Saab
Both Johan and Angelica play vital roles in strengthening security across the Baltic region.
For Johan, that means guiding the evolution of the 9LV Combat Management System, the nerve centre that connects ships, sensors, and crews into one coordinated defence network.
“9LV has always been in the middle, connecting everything. My job is to make sure it stays relevant today and tomorrow.”
– Johan
For Angelica, impact comes from making advanced technology easy to understand. Whether analysing new solutions or speaking in front of a camera, her mission is the same - to build trust and awareness around Saab’s work.
“The Baltic Sea is such a complex environment, you really need special solutions to support the forces securing the region.”
– Angelica
Together, they represent the blend of technical mastery and clear communication that defines Saab. Their work proves that making an impact isn’t only about pure innovation, it’s about connecting knowledge, people, and purpose.
What it’s like to work here (and why we like it)
Angelica says one of the things that struck her most on joining Saab was the spirit of sharing. “I learn new things every day at work because people here are so generous with their knowledge and experience,” she explains.
Johan says his job at Saab has allowed him to combine his two passions. “I like to have a foot in the naval realm because I really loved my period in the Navy,” he says. “And to mix that with technology and the wonderful people at Saab has been sort of the perfect recipe for me.”
Both agree that Saab’s culture empowers people to make a difference. It’s a place where you’re trusted to take responsibility, where ideas are heard, and where small actions can lead to real change.
Why our work matters
After years at sea, Johan has seen how reliable systems make a real difference for the people who use them. In his work with 9LV, he and his team aim to deliver technology that feels dependable and intuitive, something crews can count on day after day.
“You can’t just throw money at the problem,” he says. “You need people, training, research, and technology all working together. That’s how you build true capability.”
Where Johan builds systems, Angelica builds understanding — two sides of the same mission. Her focus is on turning technology into solutions people can relate to and trust. By helping others understand how Saab’s innovations strengthen security in the Baltic region, she connects engineering to everyday purpose.
“With everything happening in the world, you really feel that our work has purpose,” Angelica says. “Every day, we help make society a little safer.”
Want to influence the bigger picture?
Join us at Saab and be part of the ideas, technology, and teamwork that keep people and societies safe. Together, we can make a real impact, and your part matters.
Does it sound like your kind of place?